Away to Met Police NE Reserves

After last weeks unconvincing win at Horminster the Vets travelled to one of the pre season
favourites Met Police Essex. We knew a much improved performance would be
required if we were to take anything from this game.

Player availability and injury resulted in three changes to last week’s
starting line up. But with a strong squad of players this season this was an
opportunity for some. We started with a 4-4-2 formation and were playing
against the slope and the wind on an exposed pitch. Met Police enjoyed the
majority of the possession in the opening 15 minutes passing the ball around
the middle of the park but rarely threatening the final third. A good move down
the left hand side between H and Marlon gave a counter attacking opportunity to
Martin Treadway on 20 minutes and gave a warning to the opposition that despite
their possession we were very much in the game. Met police continued in the
first half but without creating a clear chance. We were holding our shape well
and defending from the front. Both Paul and Marlon were working hard on their
defensive duties against the slope with Kevin and Martyn chasing down every
ball in the centre. 0-0 at half time and the team talk was focused on ‘more of
the same’ in the second half and the importance of being positive with the
slope and wind advantage.

Suhail replaced the hard working Kevin Whitworth who deserved an extra
ten minute break for his first league game for the Vets. The second half
started well for the vets as we began to dominate. We were creating chances
from both flanks and on another day could have been a couple of goals up inside
60 minutes. Eventually our domination began to tell and some quick ball resulted
in a clear penalty when Taju was chopped down in the six yard box. Martin Treadway converted a confident
penalty on 65 minutes. It was no less than we deserved. The team continued to
work hard and the defence was looking solid against a lively Met Police attack.
Our second goal was created by a great move down the right side with Kevin
Whitworth crossing of Taju to chip
home just from six yards.

Met Police pushed up a gear and coupled with a little panic from
ourselves started to work back into the game. They finally pulled a goal back
from a corner when an unmarked player headed home. Potentially a foul on our
‘keeper but at 2-1 with 15 minutes to go we had to remain focused. Hard work
from the whole team meant we held out for an impressive win. I think we all
agree it wasn’t our best football but it was a huge improvement on last week
and everyone played their part in our continued 100% start to the season.
Result 2 1.